Hi
Our daughter had her palate repair a couple weeks ago and our surgeon also left a small hole in the front. I can't even notice it, and he did say that he closed it as much as possible, but it won't be fully closed until her bone graft. I think it allows room for teeth, if they aren't aligned properly and allows the gum line to shift and move as the palate comes together. The only thing he said we would notice is some food will still come out of her nose...which small amounts do. I truly can't remember all the reasons, but he's done so many repairs that I just trust whatever he said. She just had her post-op check and he said everything looks great. The roof of her mouth looks amazing, I really don't think you could tell there was ever a cleft except for the suture line. The first week of recovery was a little rough, but after that she has been doing great. It's interesting to watch her relearn how to move/swallow the food and liquids again, but he said that they get the hang of it pretty quick. I hope this may have helped a little. Good luck with the surgery and I'm sure it will go great!
Lissa
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